Special report: 2006 FIFA World Cup

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is frustrated after a 1-0 semifinal defeat of his team on Wednesday. (Xinhua Photo)

    MUNICH, July 6 (Xinhua) -- Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said on Thursday that it has been an "achievement" for Portugal to reach the semifinals of the World Cup.

    "Thirty-two teams started the World Cup and four got to the semi-finals. To be among the four is an achievement for us, it's historic," the Brazilian told reporters.

    Though failing to make the final following the 1-0 loss to France, Portugal reached the last four of the tournament for the first time since 1966.

    "We're not going to drop our heads or feel bad because of yesterday's defeat," said Scolari, who led his native Brazil to their fifth world title in 2002.

    "I want the world to know that we're proud of our players,"he added.

    Portugal will play Germany for the third place on Saturday. Enditem